Component vs. Standard AV cables

[TemjinGold]

So as my Console Dilemma Saga continues, here is the next question:

I know component should be better than the cables that shipped with the Wii but, considering that the Wii can't do HD, how much of a difference will a component cable make (anyone know if my 2407WFP will upscale either automatically, rendering the difference moot)? I'm not asking because I'm too cheap to buy a component cable; I'm asking because if there isn't a huge difference, I can have my PS3 connected to my 2407WFP's component and the Wii connected to its composite and not have to deal with flipping cables around. Unfortunately, I don't have any component cables to compare at the moment and wanted to just place one giant order through monoprice for every cable I need once I figure out which ones those are. (Moving next week so I haven't taken either console out of the box yet.)

Does anyone know maybe the resolution cap on composite (before I sound like an idiot again, the Wii's standard AV cable IS composite, right?) or (even better) have links to screenshots of component vs. composite for the Wii so that I might judge? If it's a huge difference I'll deal with the cable flip but if it's barely noticeable, I'll probably stick with different inputs (really wish the monitor DID have hdmi now...)

 

[DBL]

It makes a noticeable difference. You do not need 720p to see a difference with comp cables. Get them. There are some web sites out there showing the difference.

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

Composite is generally pretty darn crappy and will be limited to 480i. S-video is also 480i but should have better color and be sharper.

I'm not really sure how well the 2407 scales the "non-PC" inputs to its 1920x1200 screen. I've read about some problems with the quality of the component input as well with darkness issues, but I haven't really looked into it too much.

I don't have a Wii either, so this is not based on specific experience, but rather the connection types in general.

 

[Rio Rebel]

Huge difference as long as your tv is enhaced def or high def. The biggest jump in quality, and most noticable, is between 480i and 480p.

Get a switcher. They're not too expensive (I think Phillips makes one around $30). HDMI switchers are expensive and sometimes flaky, but component switchers are cheaper and reliable.

 

[onlyCOpunk]

They will really make a huge difference. And Wii can do 480p. Not the highest of resolutions, but it's definitely better then composite.

 

[montypythizzle]

480p>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>480i

 

[sciencewhiz]

http://www.gamespot.com/features/6162297/p-2.html

 

[montypythizzle]

Originally posted by: sciencewhiz
http://www.gamespot.com/features/6162297/p-2.html

Pretty big difference IMHO.

 

[Slick5150]

Yeah, I had my Wii running 480i for a week or so until my component cable showed up and there is a pretty noticeable difference once you enable 480p. It probably varies from TV to TV (I have a 37" 720p LCD), but I'd imagine on ANY tv you'll see the difference.

 

[TemjinGold]

Thanks guys! I didn't want to deal with switches and stuff but you've convinced me. The difference really is night and day so I'll go component for both.

 

[montypythizzle]

If it is such a big deal, get a HDMI>DVI from monoprice, and just hook up your computer via VGA. What I would do IMHO.

 

[TemjinGold]

A switch will probably be better. I don't like how LCDs change resolution on VGA. Thanks though!